GU Activists Go Hungry To Help Janitors

Student activists said money should not be an issue. The university, they noted, raised $15 million for a new boathouse on the Potomac and is seeking $120 million for a business school.

"When we want to build a boathouse, we find the money," said Mike Wilson, a hunger striker who was taken to the hospital with vision problems. "This is enough of a priority to find the money."

Started by two students three years ago, the campaign has grown into Georgetown Living Wage Coalition. Its Web site is studentorgs.georgetown.edu/solidarity/lw/ .

In addition to those on hunger strike, about 15 students keep the tent tidy, provide medical support and try to attract media attention.

Some have campaigned for global causes but said they feel more fulfillment fighting for the rights of those in their immediate community.

"It's almost hypocritical to be helping other people around the world and turn a blind eye to the problems of people here on campus," said Gladys Cisneros, 22, a graduate student in Latin American studies.

For the past five months, Jonathan Garcia, 20, has worked as a janitor on the night shift. His brother and mother work there, too. He said he receives $9.05 an hour, excluding benefits, which is not enough for him to quit his second job. "I appreciate what they are doing," said Garcia, who is from El Salvador. "They're trying to help us get paid a bit more. They are nice students."

The activists also teach English to the janitors during lunch breaks. They've organized picnics for the workers and their families. The workers, in turn, have brought water with vitamins for the hunger strikers and have attended protest rallies.

"We're getting to see the full impact of the work we are doing," said Janessa Landeck, 22, a senior. "We're helping them organize themselves."

Cisneros said she's noticed a difference in the workers.

"They feel empowered and emboldened," she said. "They are no longer looking behind their backs to see if the manager is looking."

In recent days, the activists have attracted support from some influential corners. Last week, AFL-CIO President John J. Sweeney released a statement applauding the hunger strike campaign. And some faculty members have shown support.